Will septoplasty correct my crooked nose? (Photo)

A septoplasty can be considered in both functional and cosmetic cases. Any changes in external appearance for cosmetic improvement will not be be covered by insurance.  The breathing aspects are sometimes covered by insurance. There can be many causes for breathing difficulties, and a deviated septum may be one.Kenneth Hughes, MDBeverly Hills, CA

 A septoplasty is performed for medical necessity when there is a breathing problem occurring in the back of the nose. A septoplasty will not change the shape of the external appearance of the nose. A rhinoplasty is performed to straighten a crooked nose which includes osteotomies and cartilage spreader graft placement.  A rhinoplasty can be performed with a septoplasty under one anesthesia with one recovery period, however patients must be for the cosmetic component themselves.For more information about the differences between the 2 procedures, please see the link and video below

Correcting a grossly deviated nasal septum can some cases help fix the crooked nose as well.  However, it cannot be guaranteed.  In some cases the nasal bones have to be broken and set straight as well.  Your best option would be to undergo a septorhinoplasty as opposed to only a septoplasty.RegardsDr. J